Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this Crack Chicken Noodle Soup. Combining tender shredded chicken, hearty egg noodles, crispy turkey bacon, and a creamy, cheesy broth infused with ranch seasoning, this soup offers a rich and satisfying meal perfect for any occasion.
Why This Recipe Appeals
- Creamy and Flavorful: The combination of cream cheese, cheddar, and ranch seasoning creates a rich and savory broth that elevates traditional chicken noodle soup.
- Hearty Ingredients: Loaded with protein from chicken and turkey bacon, and complemented by egg noodles, this soup is both filling and nourishing.
- Quick and Easy: With a total preparation and cooking time of approximately 30 minutes, it’s an ideal choice for busy weeknights or a comforting weekend meal.
Ingredients
- Butter: 2 tablespoons
- Onion: 1, chopped
- Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
- Chicken Broth: 4 cups
- Cooked Chicken: 3 cups, shredded
- Egg Noodles: 1 (8-ounce) package
- Heavy Cream: 1 cup
- Cheddar Cheese: 1 cup, shredded
- Turkey Bacon: ½ cup, cooked and crumbled
- Cream Cheese: 1 (8-ounce) package, softened
- Ranch Seasoning Mix: 1 packet
- Salt and Pepper: To taste
- Fresh Parsley: Chopped, for garnish
Step-by-Step Directions
1. Sauté Aromatics
- In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic; sauté until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant, about 3–4 minutes.
2. Add Broth and Noodles
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Add the shredded chicken and egg noodles; cook until the noodles are tender, approximately 8–10 minutes.
3. Incorporate Cream and Cheeses
- Stir in the heavy cream, shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled turkey bacon, softened cream cheese, and ranch seasoning mix.
- Continue cooking, stirring occasionally, until the cheeses have melted and the soup has a smooth, creamy texture, about 5 minutes.
4. Season and Serve
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Remove from heat and let the soup sit for a few minutes to thicken slightly.
- Serve hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley.
Possible Variations
- Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to introduce some heat.
- Vegetable Boost: Incorporate diced carrots, celery, or spinach for added nutrition and texture.
- Low-Carb Option: Replace egg noodles with zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice to reduce carbohydrate content.
- Alternative Proteins: Substitute turkey bacon with regular bacon or pancetta for a different flavor profile.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 6
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Storage and Reheating Instructions
- Storage: Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: For best results, freeze the soup without the noodles, as they can become mushy upon reheating. Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through. If frozen, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. Add freshly cooked noodles during reheating for optimal texture.
FAQs
1. Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes! To prepare in a slow cooker, add all ingredients except for the cheese, heavy cream, and noodles. Cook on low for 4–6 hours or high for 2–3 hours. Add the noodles, cheeses, and cream in the last 30 minutes of cooking.
2. Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use gluten-free noodles and ensure your ranch seasoning mix is gluten-free to accommodate dietary restrictions.
3. Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?
Yes, using rotisserie chicken is a convenient option. Simply shred the cooked chicken and add it to the soup as directed.
4. How can I prevent the cream cheese from curdling?
Ensure that the cream cheese is fully softened and cut into small cubes before adding it to the soup. Stir continuously over low heat to help it incorporate smoothly.
5. What can I serve alongside this soup?
This hearty soup pairs well with crusty bread, garlic toast, or a light green salad for a complete meal.
6. Can I substitute the heavy cream with a lighter option?
Yes, you can use half-and-half or whole milk as a lighter alternative, though the soup may be slightly less creamy.
7. How do I adjust the thickness of the soup?
If the soup is too thick, add additional chicken broth or water to reach the desired consistency. If it’s too thin, let it simmer longer to reduce and thicken.
